PHILIPSBURG:--- On the occasion of the International Day of the Elderly, the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), led by the Honorable Minister Richinel Brug, proudly honored seven distinguished individuals whose decades of dedication, service, and leadership have made a lasting impact on St. Maarten’s community life.
The recognition ceremony celebrated the following community pillars:
Ms. Elvia Theodora Guy returned to St. Maarten in 1977 after completing her studies in district nursing in the Netherlands. She served at the Department of Public Health and later at the Social Services Department from 1978 to 2009, where she rose to the role of Department Supervisor. Ms. Guy’s compassion, leadership, and steadfast commitment to social welfare touched countless lives throughout her career.
Mr. Charles “Freddie” Maccow, St. Maarten’s first qualified Health Inspector, began his public health career in 1967 and played a pivotal role in establishing the island’s Hygiene Department in 1972. A lifelong advocate for environmental health, he pursued advanced studies in the United States and Germany. He also served as President of the Cole Bay Community Council. His contributions continue to shape public health standards across the region.
Mr. Joseph “Joe” Gumbs, who migrated from Anguilla at age 12, became a beloved entrepreneur and pillar of the local business community. After working with the late Charles M. Wathey, he and his late wife opened Joe’s Shopping Center on Back Street in 1972. Now celebrating 53 years in operation, Joe’s Shop remains one of St. Maarten’s last true “mom-and-pop” establishments—a testament to resilience, family, and community trust.
Nurse Linda Piper returned to St. Maarten in 1973 and built a distinguished career in youth healthcare. Her pioneering work in school immunizations and health screenings helped address emerging issues such as childhood obesity and juvenile diabetes. She played a key role in shaping vital health initiatives, including the Youth Obesity Project, School Canteen Guidelines, and Take the Challenge: Eat Healthy St. Maarten.
Ms. Nacili “Anna”, originally from the Dominican Republic, made St. Maarten her home in 1983 and quickly became a respected leader in the beauty industry. Known for her artistry and mentorship, she trained countless aspiring beauticians and prepared generations of Carnival queens, brides, and young women for their special moments—leaving behind a legacy of beauty, empowerment, and self-confidence.
Pastor James Augustus Young, originally from St. Vincent, has lived on St. Maarten since 1970. A master baker and devoted spiritual leader, he began baking in 1972 with Scott Bakery and later founded Caribbean Bakery, which served the island until 2012. For over 40 years, he has led Bible Baptist Church in Sucker Garden, embodying a life of faith, service, and community leadership.
Mr. Oscar Gladwyn David began his mechanical career at the young age of 13 and refined his expertise through international training. After decades of service at FW Vlaun & Son, he went on to teach for 30 years at the Vocational Training School. His mentorship has helped shape generations of local mechanics, many of whom have gone on to establish successful careers both locally and abroad.
In addition to these honorees, the Ministry recognized three of St. Maarten’s treasured centenarians—each a living testament to strength, wisdom, and the beauty of a life well lived:
- Marie Reiph, aged 105
- Olive Dauris Gertrude Wilson, who will celebrate her 104th birthday on October 29
- Barbara Richardson-Alexander, aged 101
Together, these honorees and centenarians reflect the very spirit of St. Maarten—resilient, dedicated, and deeply community-minded. Their lifelong contributions across healthcare, education, entrepreneurship, faith, mentorship, and the arts have enriched the island and inspired generations to come.
The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor proudly celebrates their legacy and expresses sincere gratitude for their unwavering service to the people of St. Maarten.
"Our elderly are the living memory of our nation—keepers of wisdom, culture, and resilience. On this day, we honor their lifelong contributions and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring they live with the dignity, care, and respect they so deeply deserve.", stated Minister Brug.
